2

improvement. That these may
be promoted by the lubrications &
labours of the Society, is my sincere wish.
Were I more competent, under any circumstances to aid it by mine,
the pledge would now be
forbidden by the wear & tear of life of which
I am becoming sensible. Perhaps I
ought in candour to add that although
I am not unfriendly to public
interpositions with private pursuits
in certain cases forming clear excep-
-tions to the general rule of "free industry"
I am so much attached to the general
rule, that it is quite possible, my
views with respect to the exceptions would too little
harmonize with those of the
Society for a beneficial cooperation.

Be pleased to accept my friendly respects.

James Madison